Cape Town — South African Foundations have expressed concern over the current state of the country, as negotiations continue for the Government of Naional Unity (GNU).
After no single party managed to secure an outright majority in the 2024 general elections, political parties scrambled to find partners to form a coalition. In the end, the African National Congress (ANC) and Demcoratic Alliance (DA) decided to team up and form the GNU.
As of today, there are 10 countries in the GNU. The GNU ushers a new era for South Africa and there remains great uncertainty until President Ramaphosa announces his cabinet.
According to media statement, nine foundations met and held a a press conference in Johannesburg on Thursday, to call on the nation to take part in the National Dialogue aimed at paving a new way forward.
“In recent years, South Africa has been faced by economic stagnation, governance failures, and political paralysis. These challenges have manifested in high unemployment, failing public services, and increasing social unrest,” the Thabo Mbeki Foundation said.
SABC News reported Steve Biko Foundation’s Nkosinathi Biko said, “We, the foundations, as leading social institutions, believe that an urgent, inclusive citizen-led national intervention is required to restore the legitimacy, credibility and enhancement of the South African democratic project.”
“It is time for every South African to take part in paving a new way forward. We call on all citizens to engage in defining a clear vision and establishing a unifying programme that inspires new national hope. Out of this reflection must arise a renewed commitment to constitutional democracy and the urgency to improve the material conditions of those left behind,” He adds.
Taking place today: Civil Society’s Call to South Africans for a National Dialogue
to imagine and create the South Africa we envisaged. pic.twitter.com/dD6eH6ivcZ— Thabo Mbeki Foundation (@TMFoundation_) June 27, 2024
[WATCH] The Thabo Mbeki, Desmond Tutu and Ahmed Kathrada foundations, among other non-governmental organisations, say South Africa has for the past 15 years been on a dangerous path that has paralysed social, economic and government spheres.#Newzroom405 pic.twitter.com/IIG4yosCDW
— Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) June 27, 2024
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Compiled by Matthew Petersen
